A young visitor makes an unexpected new friend at the Acton Fair. Photo: Acton Fair
By Brian Boisvert
Get ready for late summer fun as the historic Acton Fair returns for its landmark 161st season. Running Aug. 27-30, this cherished regional tradition brings authentic New England country fair nostalgia directly to Southern Maine. The fairgrounds will be open from 9 am to 9 pm Thursday through Saturday, and 9 am to 5 pm on Sunday, offering four full days of agricultural displays, community celebration, and family entertainment for all ages.
Since its founding in the 19th century, the Acton Fair has balanced small-town charm with a packed schedule of events. Whether you are coming for the livestock judging, the roar of the grandstands, or a night on the carnival rides, the fairgrounds offer something for everyone:
- Thrills & Midway: The fair provides a full midway of carnival rides, interactive games, and traditional fair food, ranging from golden fried dough and cotton candy to fresh lemonade and local farm treats.
- Crowd Favorite Competitions: Highlighting the four-day schedule are lively community showdowns. Attendees can cheer on participants in the 13th Annual Cruise’n Car Show, the 4th Annual Iron Tails Saloon Men’s Keg Toss, the legendary Women’s Skillet Throw, and classic horse pulling. Families won’t want to miss the Miss Acton Fair pageant or the always-unpredictable Pig Scramble.
- Livestock & Exhibition Halls: The heart of the fair remains its deep agricultural roots. Visitors can stroll through the barns to view livestock competitions—including the official American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) Dairy Goat Show and youth 4-H exhibits. Inside the Exhibition Hall, check out blue-ribbon baking, hand-crafted goods, canned preserves, and giant homegrown produce grown by local farmers.
- Family Fun & Grandstand Shows: Live music fills the air throughout the weekend with performances across the Grandstand Stage, the Music Pavilion, and the Locke Family Entertainment Center. Kids can enjoy dedicated entertainment, including magic shows, puppet performances, and hands-on activities.
The Acton Fairgrounds are located at 550 Route 109 in Acton, across from the Iron Tails Saloon.
General adult cash admission is $10 at the gate, with advance electronic tickets accessible online at www.actonfair.net. To keep the event accessible for families, children 12 and under enter free when accompanied by an adult. Additionally, seniors and military veterans can take advantage of a discounted $5 admission rate during Senior and Veteran Days on Thursday and Friday.
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